Quick Tip: Taking Great Sports Videos and Photos.

Get the right angle

When shooting video of sports, you want to remain in one spot where you will be able to capture the most action. You’ll also probably want to get up in the stands (but not too far up) in order to have a good view of all of the the entire playing field.

On the other hand, when taking photos, you’ll want to pick an angle where you can get a dramatic but specific shot, such as behind and off to the side of the net, or beside the one yard line. You’ll want to move around a lot in order to shoot from different vantage points, so you have a better chance of taking a variety of striking photos.

Zoom in

As mentioned above, when shooting video you usually want avoid zooming in, and instead use a wider angle in order to capture the team tactics on the field.

However, when taking photos of sports action, you’ll usually be zoomed in on one or two players to capture the detail of a single action, such as a pass, kick, or shot.

Understand the sport you’re shooting

When capturing video or shooting photos, you’re going to require knowledge of the sport you’re shooting so you can be ready for a shift in action or anticipate what’s about to happen and time your shot appropriately.

Capture the human element

Also for both photo and video, don’t forget the human angle. Some of the most impactful shots are tightly zoomed pictures and videos during breaks in the action or immediately before or after a play on the field or a race.

Trying to capture facial expressions and emotions (perhaps of two players at the same time) makes for great photos, and also takes a zoom shot.

Learn from the pros

Study sports magazines and watch sportscasts to get some ideas of creative angles and the best places to shoot from.